Best Beer Gardens in the City

The huge communal tables at Bohemian Hall in Astoria guarentee that you'll meet other friends enjoying the outside. (Image courtesy of bohemianhall.com)

On the one hand, who needs a garden when you’ve got a good brew. On the other hand, there’s something incredibly satisfying about sitting outside among friends and throwing back a few beers on a warm, gorgeous day. We sought out to find the best beer gardens in the city for you to do just that. Take a look: — Camille DeMere

The huge communal tables at Bohemian Hall in Astoria guarentee that you'll meet other friends enjoying the outside. (Image courtesy of bohemianhall.com)

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden

The oldest beer garden in New York is celebrating its birthday this year, which means that what is normally fun is always a party. The huge communal tables under the trees mean that during your stay, you’re almost guaranteed to meet new friends. The Beer Garden is run by Bohemian Citizens’ Benevolent Society of Astoria, which is dedicated to preserving the Czech and Slovak ways of life. Find super-authentic beers and foods, as well as friendly folks, and great events (check the calender online before you head out.)

Now here’s a garden! Way larger than any Manhattan spot, this Williamsburg bar, which prides itself on its array of Belgian beer, has a garden to envy. With fun, mismatched chairs and tables, its casual, and intimate without making you bump elbows with your neighbor. The no-frills service lets you get down to the real reason you’re there – to enjoy some great beer in a spot with a relaxing vibe.

Enjoy a beer in the sun outside Zum Schnedier. (Image courtesy of zumschneider.com)

This low key pub calls itself an “indoor biergarten”, but if you’re craving rays, don’t worry. You can still drink beers served by Frauleins in full Bavarian garb in the sun on their sidewalk patio. They’ve got twelve beers on tap and always fill huge steins to the brim. Pair your beer with some of Zum Schneider’s fare – like soft pretzels and sausages, and enjoy a relaxing day in the sun.

A sunny summer day in the beer garden at Loreley (Image courtesy of loreleynyc.com)